An Elementary Study of Insects

Isascientific pub lication written in the early 20th century. This book serves as an edu cational resource aimed primarily at grade school children, focusing on the economic significance of insects, both beneficial and harmful. It intends to foster an understanding of various insect species and their roles in nature, particularly in relation to agriculture. The opening of the book lays the foundation for a comprehensive exploration of insects, emphasizing their importance in the ecosystems and agriculture. Haseman introduces readers to the characteristics of insects, their methods of development, and various insect orders. He describes how insects can be both pests that damage crops and allies that aid in pollination and pest control. Additionally, the intro duction stresses the value of nature study for children, encouraging them to observe and collect insects to learn about their life cycles and interactions with humans and the environment. Overall, it sets the stage for a practical and engaging approach to the study of entomology In undertaking a study of insects it is well first of all to know something about what they are, their general nature, appearance, habits and develop ment. Theinsectscomprisethelargestgroupofanimalsontheglobe. There are about four times as many different kinds of insects as all other kinds of animals combined. Insects vary greatly in size. Some are as large as small birds, while others are so small that a thousand placed inonepilewouldnot equal the size of a pea. Insects are commonly spoken of as "bugs." This term, however, is properly used only when referring to the one order of insects which includes the sap andblood-sucking insects such as the chinchbug, bed-bug, squashbug, and the like. Then too, there are many so-called "bugs" which are not insects at all. Spiders, thousand-legs, crawfishes and even earth-worms are often spo ken of as bugs.